JOS, Plateau State — The Plateau State Government has commenced a comprehensive assessment of key tourist and heritage sites across the Greater Jos Master Plan as part of efforts to restore the state’s tourism potential, preserve its natural heritage and drive economic growth.

The initiative, which aligns with Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s “Time is Now” agenda on tourism, hospitality and economic diversification, is aimed at repositioning Plateau State as a leading tourism destination while creating jobs, promoting peace and attracting investment.

The inspection tour, held on Tuesday, was led by the Commissioner for Information and Communication and Supervising Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap (mni). She was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, Mr. Musa Nyam Agwom, officials of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, and other technical experts.

The delegation inspected several iconic tourist attractions, including the Gog and Magog rock formations at Shere Hills, the Unity Rock in Rayfield, which naturally resembles the map of Nigeria, the famous Riyom Rock Formation, regarded as one of Plateau State’s enduring symbols, and the historic Mado Tourist Village, a 50-room facility established in 1978 to serve visitors to the Jos Wildlife Park and Museum.

During the inspection, officials expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of some of the sites, particularly the Gog and Magog rock formation, where quarrying activities have reportedly destroyed sections of the natural landscape that once served as a popular destination for hiking and picnics.

Speaking with journalists after the tour, Rt. Hon. Ramnap said Plateau possesses exceptional natural tourism assets that require deliberate preservation and strategic development.

She explained that the assessment is designed to ensure the state’s heritage sites are fully integrated into the Greater Jos Master Plan, providing a roadmap for sustainable tourism development.

“It is not just about identifying these locations. We want to establish policies that will protect them, assess their strengths and challenges, and create long-term development strategies that will stand the test of time,” she said.

The commissioner disclosed that the state government is developing a comprehensive tourism policy that will safeguard heritage sites while unlocking their economic potential.

Expressing concern over the level of destruction observed at the Gog and Magog site, Ramnap said the government would investigate the activities of the quarry company operating in the area.

“It is unfortunate to see such an important natural attraction being tampered with. From what we have observed, the level of devastation appears to exceed what could have been approved. Government will investigate the matter and take appropriate measures to protect the site,” she stated.

She encouraged tourists, hikers and residents to continue exploring Plateau’s natural attractions, describing the state’s environment as a unique destination for recreation, wellness and investment.

“There is so much to offer on the Plateau. These natural sites provide opportunities for recreation, healing and economic growth through tourism,” she added.

Addressing concerns over poor road access and encroachment around some of the tourist sites, Ramnap said the findings from the inspection would inform future infrastructure development and conservation policies.

She noted that consultants are working alongside government officials to ensure the Greater Jos Master Plan incorporates improved road networks, environmental protection and community partnerships around identified tourism assets.

Also speaking, the Director of Building at the Plateau State Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Architect Joseph Yakwan, said the inspection would contribute significantly to the preparation of the Greater Jos Master Plan.

“The Greater Jos Master Plan is being developed by our ministry, and part of our responsibility is to ensure that tourism assets are adequately captured so they can contribute to the city’s future growth and development,” he said.

At the Riyom Rock Formation, community representative Hon. Terry Davou appealed to the state government to restore the iconic landmark and return it to its former status as one of Plateau’s premier tourist destinations.

He recalled that the rock attracted visitors from across Nigeria and overseas during the 1970s and 1980s and urged government to invest in its preservation and promotion.

“This rock has become one of the symbols of Plateau State. Whatever its origin, what matters today is preserving it and developing it into a world-class tourist attraction. Our community will be delighted if government invests in its restoration,” he said.

The assessment marks the beginning of a broader strategy by the Mutfwang administration to integrate tourism development into the Greater Jos Master Plan, protect Plateau State’s natural heritage and harness tourism as a catalyst for economic diversification, job creation and sustainable development.